Too much Macroalgae?!?

aircrane1 · Feb 14, 2019

Hello all, I have a RSR250 with about 70 lbs of TBS rock. Came with a ton of really cool stuff including a lot of macro algae that seems to be quite happy with the setup I bought for it. It's gorgeous stuff but I find myself sitting in front of the tank wondering where I can place future corals without the prospect of them being overrun by the wonder that is underwater plants. I trim it a little bit by hand and my lawnmower blenny tries his best but alas, he cannot tame the beast. Is it possible to have the best of both worlds or am I living in a fantasy world where macroalgae and corals can live symbiotically?!?

Brad Miller · Feb 14, 2019

Good question AirCrane.
I know a couple of reefers that have a setup like your asking about, but I'm not knowledable enough to say how they do it, let's see what others say.

ReefSlice · Feb 14, 2019

How long have you had the rock? Most of my macro algaes and sponges died back within 3/4 months from my TBS rock.

aircrane1 · Feb 14, 2019

ReefSlice said:
How long have you had the rock? Most of my macro algaes and sponges died back within 3/4 months from my TBS rock.

Set up was in late December so it's been just under two months. The stuff just keeps growing and I keep seeing the occasional new item popping up here and there.

aircrane1 · Feb 14, 2019

ReefSlice said:
How long have you had the rock? Most of my macro algaes and sponges died back within 3/4 months from my TBS rock.

Forgot to mention that most of, if not all sponges died off within the first month or so but I am seeing new ones popping up now. Crazy!

vlangel · Feb 15, 2019

I have a tank with coral and macro algae. The more invasive macros need to be isolated or they will take over any rock they touch. The trick is dikigent pruning.